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Antibiotics & Common Misconceptions
Many people believe that antibiotics help everything; however that couldn’t
be farther from the truth. Antibiotics cure bacterial infections, NOT viral infections such as:
Colds or flu;
Most coughs and bronchitis;
Sore throats not caused by strep; or
Runny noses
Taking antibiotics for viral infections, such as a cold, cough, flu, or most
bronchitis, will NOT:
Cure the infections;
Keep other individuals from catching the illness; or
Help you feel better.
Why are bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics?
Improper use of antibiotics is the primary cause of drug-resistant
bacteria. When a person begins to take their medication the weaker strains
of the bacteria are killed off first leaving the more resistant bacteria behind. Unfortunately when a person does not finish their prescription the
more resistant bacteria continue to live and multiply. This repeated misuse
creates a stronger and more resistant strain of bacteria.
What can happen if I get an antibiotic-resistant infection?
You may have a longer-lasting illness
You may have to visit the doctor more
You may require hospitalization
You may need more costly medicine that may cause side effects
To help prevent antibiotic resistance one should…
Take the antibiotic prescription exactly as the healthcare provider
says
Do not save an antibiotic for the next time you are sick
Do not stop taking the medication once you start feeling better, continue with the antibiotic treatment until all the medication is gone to
prevent drug-resistant strains.
Do not take an antibiotic prescribe for someone else
Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection.
Antibiotics and Birth Control
Antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of Birth Control. Although more research needs to be done, theoretically, additional medications might alter the metabolism and blood levels of the birth control hormones, thereby altering their effectiveness. While taking antibiotics, another method of birth control, such as condoms, should be used during
this time.
Antibiotic use can be very beneficial and of huge value to the patient when
taken correctly! The best way to prevent antibiotic resistance is to only
use it when it will be beneficial!
Take the MedicineNet Quiz and test your knowledge on antibiotics…
http://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/resources/quiz.html
References:
www.MedicineNet.com
The Center for Disease Control www.cdc.gov
Written by Alex Ireland—Peer Health Educator & Sierra Rocha—Peer
Health Educator
April 2011